Unless the New York Red Bulls make a last-minute addition before the
opening day of the MLS season, it's very likely 17-year old Jozy
Altidore will be starting against the Columbus Crew on April. Aside
from Altidore and John Wolyniec, the Bulls don't have any other healthy
strikers with MLS experience. Altidore isn't all that experienced
either, although it was his goals late last season that helped see the
Bulls into the playoffs and nearly past D.C. United in the first round.
Given the team's thin striking situation, he'll definitely be expected
to shoulder more scoring responsibility this year.

Following a barrage of criticism in the press for the team's alleged
poor financial situation, Red Bull declared Thursday a media day,
making coaches and players available for interviews. USA Today spoke
with both Altidore and Coach Bruce Arena about the youngster's
prospects for his second professional season in MLS.

"I feel like I'm respected a little bit more, [but] I still really
haven't developed to my max potential," said Altidore. "I'm going to
try to bring what I can to the table. It's going to be tough. MLS is no
pushover." Coach Arena is similarly cautious about making any
pronouncements. "When we start the season, we don't get any bonus
points for having a 17-year-old on the field. No one gives us extra
credit," the former U.S. national team coach said. "He's treated the
same way as a 35-year-old veteran. He's got to step on the field and
show what he is." Read the original story...